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Cardinals Introduce Mike LaFleur as Head Coach, He Will Call Offensive Plays

Arizona’s quarterback decision tops his to-do list.

Overview

  • LaFleur confirmed he will be the offensive play-caller in 2026, returning to a role he last held with the Jets after three seasons as the Rams’ offensive coordinator.
  • He praised Kyler Murray but stopped short of naming a starter, noting roster talks begin immediately with Murray and Jacoby Brissett both under contract and a March deadline approaching for a 2027 guarantee in Murray’s deal.
  • Arizona is building out its staff, with reporting identifying Don ‘Wink’ Martindale as a defensive coordinator candidate and indicating interest in Nathaniel Hackett for an offensive role, though no hires are finalized.
  • He takes over a 3-14 team that fired Jonathan Gannon on Jan. 5, with owner Michael Bidwill and GM Monti Ossenfort tasking him with a swift reset.
  • LaFleur inherits playmakers Trey McBride, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson plus the No. 3 draft pick, and he emphasized relationships, staff building and roster upgrades before discussing September goals.